Digital communication and information asymmetry in a virtual team context

Abstract

The research examines e-communications and the specific requirements related to the selection of effective media platforms adapted to the digital context. They have a direct impact on social and interpersonal relationships in a virtual team environment and an indirect impact (through work and technological processes) on the effectiveness of the virtual team structure. The focus is placed on the main challenges in a virtual context, related to the integration of synchronous and asynchronous communications in a single information structure (platform), which is adapted to the "symbiosis" of cultural diversity in the team. The virtual team's ability to develop and maintain a network of reciprocal social and personal relationships, norms, and trust that facilitate coordination and cooperation is analysed. The role of e-leaders is fundamental in the process of overcoming information asymmetry in a virtual context, as they use web-based technologies and systems as a lever to achieve an adequate level of communication that creates or maintains the necessary social dimensions. Communications tailored to team goals cannot occur without a certain level of trust in virtual teams.
Keywords - e-communications, media platform, virtual team, e-leaders, social capital, cultural and social differentiation.